National Coverage of the Post-Favre Packers

We’ll be seeing a lot more of this in the coming months. The Kansas City Star takes a look at Aaron Rodgers and his role on the Packers.

Rodgers

was impressive in relief of an injured Favre last Thanksgiving in Dallas when he came off the bench and completed 18 of 26 passes for 201 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions in a loss to the Cowboys.

And he has impressed the coaching staff with his presence in the locker room during the start of the offseason program.

“I’m excited for Aaron Rodgers, but I’m excited every year,” said McCarthy, who guided the Packers to a 13-3 record and a berth in the NFC championship game last season after two nonplayoff seasons. “This business is incredible because every year is so distinctly different. Every team is a different team. Every season takes on different obstacles.

“We feel like we’ve been planning for this. Personally I thought we were a year away from life after Brett, but we’re prepared for this.”

Rodgers has a three-year jump on his competition, and the organization intends to keep winning with him. Veteran Craig Nall, a backup for most of the last five years, will not be brought back.

“You hope that when the names change the foundation is set and guys come in and play the way they’re supposed to play,” Philbin said. “Our expectations are high. You hope the Green Bay Packers’ offense has somewhat of an identity and guys understand what the expectations are.”

McCarthy does not envision changing the offense to suit Rodgers.

“Our offense will be very similar to last year’s approach,” McCarthy said. “Aaron has a top-level arm in the NFL. There’s not a throw that I would not be comfortable with him making. None of that will change.

“It’s important for Aaron to take over the huddle, command it. It’s different for every quarterback, so that’s something that our players are aware of and already used to. He’ll be able to be in charge from day one. … To replace a legend like Brett Favre, I definitely feel he’s the right guy for this task.”